Adam subtly motioned toward the front, prompting Dustin to direct his gaze in that direction. Before them emerged the Black Dragon Army, a formidable force of tens of thousands, fully armed and clad in black armor. Each soldier wielded a menacing longsword, exuding an overwhelming sense of power and intimidation even from a distance. This was the elite force of West Lucozia, known as the Black Dragon Army!"It seems Cinna has been caught," Grace noted. Her gaze narrowed as she noticed Austin guiding the Black Dragon Army.Once assigned a retreat mission, Austin skillfully led the elite forces of the Dragon Guard into a meticulously set trap. Possessing overwhelming numerical superiority, they decisively defeated the opposition, resulting in the death of over five thousand enemies and the capture of the remaining forces.The approaching Black Dragon soldiers, marching in the thousands, produced an increasingly audible drumming sound. Even the White Tiger Army stationed on t
"Your Highness?" Cinna kneeled on the ground, observing the frosty Dustin with mixed feelings. Cinna felt joy at the sight of Dustin but also carried a profound sense of guilt.When the Black Dragon Army ambushed Cinna, he realized the dire state of the Dragon Guard. As anticipated, a retaliatory scheme ensued, resulting in the destruction of the Dragon Guard's base and the death of Reagan.Yet now, Cinna found himself in captivity. Surprisingly, he bore no grudges. Instead, a feeling of relief swept over him.Despite being a part of the Dragon Guard, West Lucozia had been his home for countless years, with many individuals becoming like family. His actions, often driven by necessity, had led to an ongoing internal conflict. His current situation seemed like a fitting consequence."Cinna, I bet this isn't how you saw things playing out. Reagan didn't make it, and neither did your plan. What do you have to say now?" Dustin said coldly."I have no words in the presence of defeat
"Where's the treasure map?" Dustin demanded."It's in Reagan's underground secret chamber. I can take you there," Cinna replied."Underground secret chamber?" Austin narrowed his eyes and warned in a low tone, "Cinna, I warn you not to play any tricks. Otherwise, I won't hesitate to get tough on you."Secret chambers were usually equipped with potential traps and hidden weapons. He was concerned that Cinna might have some malicious intentions."Now that I'm backed into a corner, I won't even think about deceiving you," Cinna said, his expression filled with discomfort."Lead the way." Dustin nodded, signaling his guards to escort Cinna.Cinna suddenly said, "Wait, I need one of Reagan's hands to open the secret chamber's vault." "No problem!" Austin unsheathed his knife, swiftly severing Reagan's right hand and handing it to Cinna. "There you go, a gift for you."Cinna winced but stayed silent as he led the way.Dustin and his companions trailed behind Cinna as they enter
"Cinna, why are you standing there? Lost in thought? Come on, we need to find that treasure map!" Julius, his face contorted with frustration, unleashed it all on Cinna."Okay." Cinna promptly headed straight for the big alloy door. He took out Reagan's severed hand and placed it on the central sensing area.The heavy alloy door opened, revealing a metallic vault of about 300 square feet. In the center was an impressive stack of gold bricks. Surrounding it were an assortment of precious rarities that were closely packed, each worth a fortune."This is Reagan's private gold vault. Anything he took a liking to ended up in here," Cinna said."Wow, look at all this treasure!" Austin exclaimed, glancing around in amazement. "Imagine if we cash in on this haul, we could practically own an entire city!""These treasures can't compare to the three treasuries of the Dragon Guard. The treasures here are merely a drop in the ocean," Cinna remarked seriously."Really?" Austin's surprise an
"Exactly! Cinna took one misstep, and this is where it led him. His choices ultimately sealed his fate. Unlike someone in this room who still has a shot at redemption," Austin remarked, casting a meaningful glance in Julius' direction.Rufus actively discouraged killing their own kin, and Julius was Austin's uncle. Without these circumstances, the consequences of Julius' rebellion would have been severe, even without significant losses. Not even Julius' death would have sufficed to alleviate the gravity of his actions.Julius cleared his throat, sensing the intensity of Austin's stare. Then, he quickly changed the subject. "Logan, these three treasuries are incredibly valuable with high stakes. So, how do you plan to deal with it?""Of course, we're bringing everything back to West Lucozia. Did you think we'd just leave it for anyone to grab?" Austin said, rolling his eyes."We shouldn't hog all three treasuries," Dustin said, shaking his head. He continued, "Taking down the Dr
After handing out the treasure maps, Dustin and his team got to work and efficiently organized the Dragon Guard's base. The base's location was pretty strategic, hidden, and easy to defend. It gave them a tactical edge as it sat right on the border between two nations. It made sense to turn this stronghold into a military fortress. That way, it could be a strategic hub for launching surprise maneuvers in future conflicts with Western nations. It wasn't an urgent need, but being prepared ahead of time was always a smart move.After sorting out these issues, Dustin and his team returned to the West Lucozia castle. With the threat eliminated and victory secured, Rufus, the Prince of West Lucozia, arranged a lavish feast at the castle. He invited everyone who played a part in resolving the recent events.The whole castle was alive with excitement, inside and out. Everyone was thrilled to hear that Rufus had survived. The additional news of wiping out the remaining Dragon Guard
For a moment, the people exchanged puzzled glances. While most of them were aware that Rufus wasn't in the best of health, they believed he still had several years ahead of him. Rufus deciding to step down just as they had resolved all their issues caught everyone off guard. "Rufus, aren't you moving this too hastily?" Eloise advised. "I agree, Your Highness. You're full of vigor and likely to live a long life. There's no need to step down at this time," Wyatt said with straightforward honesty. While the others were filled with uncertainty, they dared not speak. They were afraid of offending the future Prince if they urged Rufus to stay on the throne. Those wise enough knew it was best to remain silent and observe the unfolding situation. "I know my condition best. I don't have much time left. With everyone gathered here, it is my final wish to make arrangements for the time after my departure," Rufus said with a faint smile. "Rufus—" Eloise began to speak, but Rufus ra
Lincon's statement drew many curious glances. Anyone smart enough could clearly tell that Austin had more supporters. Therefore, selecting Austin would be the wisest choice.As the brains behind West Lucozia, Lincon was seen as the strategic advisor of the region. It appeared rather unusual for him to go against the trend and support Logan."Sir Lincon, I respectfully disagree." Tyrus countered, "Prince Logan's martial talent is indeed unparalleled in West Lucozia. However, the title of Prince of West Lucozia is not merely bestowed upon a formidable warrior. "Prince Austin, on the other hand, not only excels in both martial and literary arts, but he also has widespread support. Having years to hone his skills in the military, he has demonstrated excellence in various aspects. "If Prince Austin assumes the throne, he will undoubtedly lead West Lucozia into an era of prosperity like never before!" Austin was the King's nephew and also his future son-in-law. Given the impending
"And as for the rest of you, I'll be investigating each of you one by one." Austin's gaze moved past Langdon and landed on the royal advisors. He sneered and added, "You'd better keep your records clean. If I find anything on any of you, I'll handle it by the book, and there won't be any mercy."At these words, panic swept through the room. Everyone exchanged nervous glances, and their hearts pounded like war drums.As soon as they realized Austin was angry, they quickly fell silent. Langdon had always been making all the noise, but now they found themselves caught in the fire.Anyone who'd held a position like theirs usually had some skeletons in the closet. In the past, Rufus had been willing to turn a blind eye and let things slide. But now, Austin clearly wasn't following the usual rules. If he decided to investigate thoroughly, most of them would likely find their careers and reputations destroyed."Mr. Rhys, what do we do now? Lord Austin seems dead serious about this."
"Langdon, I can't tell if you're playing dumb or if you really are that stupid." Though Austin was smiling, his eyes were cold. He continued, "You asked for physical evidence, and I provided it. You asked for witnesses, and I gave you those too. Now, with both evidence and testimony laid bare, and even the criminal confessing, what else do you want?""Hmph! The government is rife with corruption. I'm simply seeking justice and preventing you from wrongfully killing the innocent." Langdon still held his righteous stance.Some of the royal advisors who had initially supported him now stayed silent. They could sense Austin's rising anger and didn't dare provoke him further. At that instant, they had lost their confidence. As Austin had pointed out, the solid evidence was right before them, and it was impossible to deny.Langdon was a member of the Rhys family and Austin's elder. He could afford to speak without a filter, but the others couldn't. If they truly angered Austin, the
"Sir Thatcher? Mr. Wentworth?" When Langdon saw their faces, his eyes went wide in disbelief. "You… How did you two end up like this?" He was genuinely stunned.Huxley and Percival were two of the most powerful figures in West Lucozia. They commanded respect wherever they went, and even Langdon himself had to show them deference.He never expected that they had fallen from their positions of prestige to become disheveled prisoners overnight."Austin! You've gone too far!" Recovering from his initial shock, Langdon's fury erupted. He didn't even bother with titles anymore. "Do you even realize what you're doing? These two men are pillars of West Lucozia and the prince's most trusted advisors. They're your elders and mentors. Yet, you tortured them like this. Are you even human?""He's right," someone chimed in. "They dedicated their lives to this country. What crime did they commit to deserve such cruelty by Your Highness?"The gathered officials erupted in outrage and condemned
"Your Highness, you mustn't speak such nonsense." Langdon put on a righteous front.He continued, "I've always prided myself on my integrity and never done anything dishonorable. I've never betrayed the prince's trust or let the people down, and I have nothing to hide.""Such lofty words," Austin scoffed. "If you have nothing to hide, why not let the enforcement team investigate?"Langdon's face tightened, and a flicker of unease crossed his eyes. After all, what official didn't have some skeletons in the closet? A full investigation would likely turn up something, no matter how small. Even if the offenses weren't serious, the damage to his reputation would be permanent.With so many officials watching, Langdon couldn't afford to back down. If he did, he would lose his standing in the political world—and his claim to integrity along with it."Go ahead and investigate." He raised his chin and said confidently, "I've lived an honest life and never engaged in anything illegal. No m
Austin sat in his chair and silently watched the royal advisors put on their pretentious act. He slowly sipped his tea as if he couldn't be bothered by their so-called accusations.His nonchalant demeanor made Langdon and the others frown. Their once-outrageous voices began to falter.They had stormed in full of righteous fury earlier, only to be met with complete apathy. What was the point of arguing when he wasn't even listening?"Are you done?" Austin finally spoke once the room had quieted down. "If not, go ahead and keep talking. Say as much as you need to until you're satisfied.""Your Highness, we're here to discuss serious matters. Your dismissive attitude is truly disappointing," Langdon said sharply."Serious matters?" Austin let out a short laugh.He went on, "You barge in here without even understanding the full picture and spewing accusations like they're facts. As far as I'm concerned, you're no different from clowns putting on a show.""You… How dare you!" Langdon
"Are you even qualified to sit while speaking to me?"Austin's words struck like the blow of a hammer. They were sharp and unrelenting, and they left no room for retort.Langdon sat frozen and was momentarily speechless. He hadn't expected a brat like Austin to have such a sharp tongue.If he admitted he had come for personal matters, he would keep his pride intact, but he would lose control of the conversation. Everything he had prepared—and all the accusations he meant to throw—would be meaningless.But if he insisted it was official business, he would have to show proper respect and offer a formal greeting. No matter how he answered, he would be conceding ground."I'll ask one more time. Are you here on official or personal matters?" Austin asked coldly."O-Official matters." Cornered, Langdon barely managed to get the words out."Well? Is this how an official conducts himself?" Austin pressed.Langdon had no choice but to rise and offer a deep bow. "Your Highness, it's an h
After a night of chaos, some of the Red Legion's members were killed, others were captured, and the entire force had been wiped out.But the fallout didn't stop there. The Prescott estate was also raided. All embezzled wealth was confiscated, and those found guilty were thrown into prison.Anyone connected to the Prescotts was placed under house arrest and subjected to rigorous investigation.And the man behind it—Warrick—had become the kingdom's most wanted fugitive.Until he was captured, Celestria remained under lockdown. Major roads were sealed off, and patrol teams scoured every corner to ensure Warrick had no way out.Austin's crackdown sparked outrage among senior officials who didn't know the full story. They voiced their dissatisfaction, with some even gathering outside the castle gates in protest. They stomped their feet in outrage, just short of openly cursing him.To them, Warrick had made great contributions to the nation. Even if he had committed crimes, he didn't d
Austin's words were calm and almost casual. Yet, they struck like thunder and echoed in the hearts of the three assistant generals of the Red Legion.If they answered Austin's questions, there might still be a slim chance of survival. But if they refused, death was the only outcome.After all, who would willingly choose death when they had worked so hard to achieve their wealth and status? Yet, pride and dignity held them back. They didn't want to be branded as traitors.Now, they were caught in a dilemma. Which was more important—their honor or their lives? It was an impossible choice."You have ten seconds left. If you don't speak, you'll lose your chance." Austin's voice was utterly devoid of emotion.His words seemed to pierce their souls, and the three Red Legion assistant generals broke into a cold sweat.As the countdown neared its end, Auron finally couldn't hold back. "Your Highness! I'll talk—I'll tell you everything."Dropping to his knees, he scrambled forward and wa
Axel swallowed hard, shock written all over his face. He had always known the Draken Guardians were formidable, but he had never expected them to be this lethal.He had pushed himself to his limit just to hold his own against Connor and Dave, only to end up seriously wounded. Yet, when the Draken Guardians arrived, they wiped them out—along with several dozen Red Legion soldiers—without losing a single man.If Axel hadn't seen it with his own eyes, he would never have believed that the Red Legion, a force renowned for its elite soldiers, could be so easily crushed. Or perhaps it wasn't that the Red Legion was weak, but that the Draken Guardians were far stronger than anyone had imagined.Even their most ordinary members were strong enough to become a mighty general. As for those at the level of captain, their strength was far beyond Axel's. The lethality of a team made up of such skilled experts had reached the point of being an overwhelming force."Mr. Cruz, please arrange some